Philippine authorities are investigating potential criminal wrongdoing after discovering electronic devices and materials allegedly containing child sexual abuse images at a former residence in Cebu belonging to Thomas Markle Sr., the estranged father of the Duchess of Sussex.
Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla stated that evidence gathered thus far indicates the possibility of severe criminal conduct. Investigators are currently conducting forensic examinations on the devices and materials, which reportedly include hundreds or thousands of explicit images, with final forensic results expected within approximately a week. Remulla emphasized that while initial signs point toward serious offenses, definitive conclusions depend on the completion of the forensic process.
The investigation commenced after Meghan Markle’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., reportedly discovered the materials while cleaning out their father’s former home in the Philippines. In response to the allegations, the Duchess of Sussex sent her 82-year-old father a final letter in December 2025 while he was hospitalized following a leg amputation. Sources close to Meghan indicated that she confronted him about the claims, informed him that authorities were aware of the situation, and stated that she would never contact him again or permit him to meet her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Speaking publicly about the estrangement, Meghan expressed deep distress and noted that she had previously kept her father away from her children to protect them. Thomas Markle Sr. has strongly denied the accusations, dismissing them as false and stating that he has nothing to hide while welcoming the forensic examination of the seized devices.
Other members of the family have also weighed in on the controversy. Samantha Markle, Meghan’s half-sister, defended their father and accused Thomas Markle Jr. of fabricating the claims for financial gain. She asserted that the computers in question had not been in their father’s possession for two years.
The unfolding inquiry has additionally drawn scrutiny toward British law enforcement regarding previous communications. London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that the department received a letter in January 2019 detailing allegations of offenses occurring outside the United Kingdom. Officers forwarded the correspondence to the office of Meghan and Prince Harry but did not pass the information along to other law enforcement bodies. The Metropolitan Police stated they are reviewing their handling of the matter and considering a potential referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Meanwhile, the FBI has confirmed it is aware of the ongoing investigation and has offered assistance to Philippine authorities. No formal charges have been filed against Thomas Markle Sr., and investigators have not yet publicly established definitive possession of the alleged material.
