Technically some significant changes have been incorporated into UK Immigration Rules.1. Has anything changed in the time since the original post?
In principle the consideration issues are about the same.
Solely in terms of costings:-
Fiance(e)
Fiance Visa......£826
FLR(M)1 Visa..........£561
FLR(M)2 Visa..........£561
ILR Visa...........£991
Total..............£2939
Spouse
Spouse Visa......£826
FLR(M) Visa......£561
ILR Visa...........£991
Total..............£2378
In the Fiance(e) route you'll notice there are now 2 FLR(M) applications required.
The first one is made once the Marriage is done and is valid for 30 months after which time a second FLR(M) needs to be made for the next 30 months leading up to ILR
With the spouse visa the initial validity is 33 months with FLR(M) being applied for shorthly before 30 months living in UK
This FLR(M) will be valid for 30months leading to ILR
In connection with the time between Marriage and FLR(M)1 being granted it's unknown. Currently many folks are waiting 6 - 10 months. This may well change in the future, we just don't know.2. How long does the process normally take between the marriage & the visa being granted?
During this time the spouse remains under the conditions and restrictions of the Fiance(e) visa. Means no work allowed (paid or unpaid) so the long waiting times can become tough both emotionally and financially. However, it's quite possible to make FLR(M) application by personal appearance and thereby get a decision same day. There's is a premium price for this service (currently £867) and it's important that the application is both fully compliant and 'straightforward' with no additional checking needed by back-office caseworkers.
If the question relates to Marriage and Visa decision within Philippines then from Application submission to decision is also variable but generally between 2-3 months. Some may be sooner and some may be longer.
BTW, may I suggest you search for CNI/CENOMAR issues that will inform you of document validity and the process of exchanging UK CNI for local CNI via British Embassy appointment.