Philippine DOJ Opens Formal Probe Into Thomas Markle Over Alleged Abuse Files

The Department of Justice in the Philippines confirmed on Friday that it is investigating 80-year-old Thomas Markle, the father of Meghan Markle, over alleged possession of child sexual abuse materials.

State-run media reported that the inquiry focuses on digital files, including videos and photos, allegedly stored in Markle's home in Cebu province. A Filipino justice official stated that the department's anti-trafficking task force is handling the case.

Meghan Markle addressed the investigation in a statement sent to CBS News on Friday. She described herself as deeply distressed by the reports and stated that she has been aware of the allegations since 2018. According to her account, a letter containing troubling claims was sent to the Metropolitan Police and its Royalty and Specialist Protection unit in 2018. She said the letter was shared with her and she was assured the matter was under investigation.

The Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the force is aware of media reports regarding the 2018 letter. The force is conducting internal enquiries to confirm the details of the incident. It is understood that the Metropolitan Police has not investigated Thomas Markle and is not currently doing so.

The initial report of the files came from Thomas Markle Jr., Meghan's brother. The Daily Mail reported that he discovered the materials in storage boxes at the family home in the Philippines. This discovery reportedly occurred while his father was in the United States receiving treatment for a stroke and blood clot. Markle Jr. said he first saw some of the content after turning on an old cell phone at the residence.

Markle Jr. reportedly contacted an FBI hotline, the National Center for Exploited and Missing Children, and state police in Pennsylvania in July. The Daily Mail reported that Thomas Markle denied the claims on Friday, stating he has never downloaded such materials and calling the accusations sick lies.

In her statement, Meghan Markle explained her decision to limit contact with her father. She said the distance was intended to protect her children. She added that her primary hope is for justice to be served and for the safety of innocent children to remain the priority.