A report published by the Daily Mail on the morning of March 29, 2026 (Philippine Standard Time), claims that Thomas Markle Sr., the estranged father of Meghan Markle, is currently in a relationship with a Filipina nurse based in Cebu.
How Thomas and Filipino Nurse Rio allegedly met
According to the report, the 81-year-old retired Hollywood lighting director met the woman—identified as Rio Canedo—in mid-December 2025 after being admitted to a rehabilitation facility in Cebu.
Canedo’s quoted statements in the report say that she first encountered Markle Sr. when he arrived at the facility by ambulance.
“I met him on the first day he came here,” she was quoted as saying. “I didn’t know who he was.”
The tabloid alleges that the two developed a close relationship during his stay, with Canedo reportedly involved in his care following a series of health complications.
The Daily Mail quotes Markle Sr. as saying he feels “blessed and beyond happy” after what he described as years of emotional difficulty following his estrangement from Meghan.
“I’ve been through tough times which makes me appreciate the good times.
“I finally at peace. I was in pain for so many years about what happened with my youngest daughter Meghan.
“I could never escape the stories online and in magazines and newspapers. I was constantly hounded by paparazzi.
“Over here, I lead a quiet life. I am grateful for my health, for Rio, and for the care I am receiving. I love the Philippines and I am enjoying my life.
“I don’t care what people think any more. I’m an old man and never thought I would be alive at nearly 82.
“What happened with Rio happened naturally. We got close and she ended up moving in with me.
“It’s a relationship I treasure. She makes me very happy and takes very good care of me. I hope I make her happy too.”
Read: Meghan Markle's dad "struggles" in Cebu despite premium living
Thomas Markle Sr.’s health condition and ongoing recovery
In the report, Markle Sr. credits Canedo for providing care and companionship during his recovery.
Daily Mail claims he had undergone emergency treatment after a blood clot affected his lower leg, which allegedly resulted in the amputation of his left leg below the knee.
It adds that he spent several days in intensive care before being transferred to a rehabilitation unit for recovery.
Canedo has been said to be assisting him with daily routines, including maintaining his diet and encouraging rehabilitation exercises.
Descriptions of their interactions—including being “affectionate” and spending time together in his room—are based solely on observations and narration in the tabloid report.
No statements from independent sources or representatives have been cited.
Markle Sr.’s health condition is a central element of the report.
According to the Daily Mail, he is currently undergoing physiotherapy multiple times a week and is expected to begin additional rehabilitation, including aqua therapy.
The report also claims he is being considered for a prosthetic limb.
It adds that he is currently dealing with pneumonia, though details regarding the severity or timeline of this condition remain unclear.
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Life In Cebu
Previous reports documented Markle Sr.’s relocation to Cebu.
According to a May 11, 2025 report by the Daily Mirror, Thomas Markle Sr. moved to the Philippines with his son, Thomas Markle Jr., as part of a lifestyle shift following multiple health issues.
The report stated that he had experienced two heart attacks and a stroke in recent years, and was using a walking stick to assist with mobility.
Based on the same Daily Mirror report, Markle Sr. is residing in a high-rise apartment in Cebu with a monthly rent of approximately PHP36,000.
Cebu has a population of over three million, with around 900,000 residents reportedly living below the poverty line.
The report also stated that Markle Sr. and his son initially stayed in a hotel before transferring to the apartment, bringing with them personal belongings, including photo albums.
Climate-related challenges
Sources cited in the Daily Mirror report suggest that Markle Sr.’s current difficulties are linked more to environmental conditions than financial concerns.
Cebu’s tropical climate—characterized by high temperatures and humidity—has reportedly posed challenges to his recovery.
Temperatures were recorded at 33°C during the week of reporting, with humidity levels approaching 90 percent.
In earlier statements quoted by the Daily Mirror, Markle Sr. explained that his move to Southeast Asia was motivated by a desire for peace.
He described the region as having “kind and welcoming” people, as well as accessible medical care and a more affordable cost of living.
“At 80, it is time to go somewhere where the people are lovely and I can enjoy a quieter, friendlier existence,” he said in the report.
He added that he hoped to spend his remaining years away from what he described as the “drama” of previous years.
Despite the relocation and lifestyle changes, there is little to indicate that Markle Sr. has reconciled with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.
His reported sighting outside a supermarket in Cebu—one day after his grandson Archie’s sixth birthday in May 2025—underscored his continued distance from his daughter’s family.
There have been no confirmed meetings between Markle Sr. and his grandchildren.
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