As you can see the answers to this question are not simple, and both have positives and negatives.

If you wish to 'test' the relationship then the only option is the Fiancee Visa, unless you try for a Visit Visa, but in most cases these tend to fail, but if you do get one, you can then live together for a while, wed in the Phil and apply a Spouse Visa.

By going for a Spouse Visa you are giving your wife-to-be the opportunity to marry in front of all her family and friends in one place, as once she comes to the UK she will rarely see them, and this would be a good send of they all remember. Once you are in the UK, you would have no problem having a church blessing service for your marriage for your own family and friends.