My wife successfully submitted all our docs and her biometrics in Cebu this morning, and she has confirmation that they are on their way to Manila. Such a massive relief but of course now the waiting begins. I am 110% sure that what we submitted fulfilled all the requirements of the UKBA (and some) so we look forward to the 'magic' text - 'your visa is ready for collection'
Just need to start sorting the logistics of how I get my wife, son, dog and 7 years of accumulated rubbish into the UK.
Onwards and upwards.