Reunion with Tom Markle in the Philippines: Navigating Unforeseen Challenges and Embracing the Unexpected
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The night began like any other, full of the anticipation of reconnecting with an old friend. However, my reunion with Tom Markle, father of the Duchess of Sussex, quickly turned into a scene reminiscent of a disaster movie. As we settled into his 19th-floor apartment in Cebu, Philippines, a sudden and violent earthquake struck, shaking both our surroundings and our sense of security.
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’
The quake strikes
Measuring a staggering 6.9 in magnitude, the earthquake rattled Cebu, a bustling city with nearly a million residents. As we ventured into the hallway, I was confronted by a long crack running the length of the wall, a stark reminder of the force we had just endured.
Amid the chaos, a single mother from Chicago rushed past us in tears, her desperate cries urging everyone to evacuate down the stairs. ‘Get out!’ she shouted, panic evident as she prepared to tackle the 19 floors on foot, since the elevator was rendered useless.
Tom’s decision
For Tom, however, navigating the stairwell was not an option. At 81 years old, he had significantly slowed down and relied on a cane for mobility. Contrary to rumors suggesting he was ‘trapped’ on the 19th floor, Tom’s son, Tom Jr., who lived next door, reassured us that descending 19 floors would only lead to the daunting prospect of climbing back up.
Tom’s health history added weight to the situation; he had already endured two heart attacks before Meghan’s wedding and suffered a stroke four years later. The thought of tackling such a physical challenge was understandably overwhelming for him.
Ultimately, we decided to remain in the apartment. Living in an area known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, notorious for earthquakes, Tom reassured me about the safety of the building, constructed with reinforced codes. ‘It is what it is,’ he said calmly. ‘We’re safer here than anywhere else.’
Finding humor in crisis
In the midst of this surreal experience, Tom’s resilience shone through. A retired lighting director from Hollywood, he immediately began to crack jokes, aiming to lighten the mood. ‘Welcome to the Philippines. You do realize this has cost me a fortune to arrange – not just the quake but the light show,’ he jested, gesturing towards the wild lightning storm brewing outside.
With the earthquake being the most significant to hit Cebu in over four centuries, it was no surprise when the power went out. Yet, thanks to the building’s emergency generator, Tom’s apartment remained equipped with wifi, television, and air conditioning. Amid the chaos, I managed to prepare two cups of tea using the PG Tips and ginger nuts I had brought from Los Angeles, my hands trembling slightly from the residual adrenaline.
Reflections during the storm
As we settled in for what felt like an eternity of conversation, Tom began to reflect on his life. ‘If we die tonight, do you think Meghan will come to my funeral?’ he mused, his tone a mix of seriousness and humor. The gravity of the situation was sobering, especially since the earthquake had already claimed at least 72 lives and left hundreds injured.
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’0
Life in Cebu
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’1
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’2
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’3
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’4
Just minutes after nine, the tremors began. The building swayed ominously, while the panicked cries of neighbors echoed through the halls. I glanced at my watch, feeling a wave of fear wash over me. I turned to Tom and confessed, ‘I’m terrified.’5
