I sent a couple of email enquiries to the RF Consulate in Madrid, without getting a reply. I then sent the same enquiry to RF consulate in London. The reply is copied below.

We were hoping to avoid having to travel 700 mile round trip to Madrid to renew the passport, over night stay etc.

Any comments please, from anyone who has been in this situation, will be appreciated,

Reply from RF Consulate London:-

Sir

1. Airlines observe a 6 month passport validity rule for international travel

2. Your wife will therefore have to apply for a new passport or have the validity of her current passport extended. She should contact the Philippine Embassy in Madrid regarding either of these services

thank you
Philippine Embassy, London