Meghan Markle speaks out as Philippine authorities investigate allegations against her father

Meghan Markle said Friday she was deeply distressed by allegations that her father, Thomas Markle Sr., possessed child sexual abuse images. Philippine authorities say a task force in Cebu is investigating the claims, which he denies.

The Duchess of Sussex said she had been told about troubling allegations against her father in 2018 and assured they were being investigated. ‘My thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed,’ she said.

What Philippine authorities said about Thomas Markle Sr.

Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla told Reuters that Meghan’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., had provided police with evidence, including a laptop. Remulla said Markle Sr., who had lived in Cebu, was believed to be back in the United States. Reuters reported that British police and the FBI had not immediately responded to requests for comment.

Markle Sr. denied the accusations, called them lies and said there was no proof, according to NBC News. He said he would welcome an investigation. NBC News said it had not received responses to requests for comment from Thomas Markle Jr. or Samantha Markle.

What Meghan Markle said about the 2018 allegations

Meghan said she had been shown a letter sent to British police and other authorities in 2018 that made ‘troubling and disturbing’ allegations against her father. She said she was given assurances at the time that the claims were being investigated. According to NBC News, a spokesperson for Meghan and Prince Harry said she learned of the letter that summer, after their wedding.

In her statement, Meghan said she had chosen to keep her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, away from her father ‘for one reason: to protect them.’ She added: ‘My sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children.’