Mac:-

1. CFO is the localised abbreviation for 'Commission For Filipinos Overseas' - set up [purportedly] to protect the interests of those settling abroad - e.g., either to work or through marriage. It entails going to a morning's guidance counselling seminar ... at the conclusion of which, a Certificate of Attendance is issued. It is also a compulsory requirement of the Philippines' Government in accordance with its laws, and a person cannot travel to his/her new destination without it.

2. Stupid woman! (the English Test Examiner, I mean!)

Quite honestly ... there's NO earthly reason why the Embassy would refuse an Application for Settlement ... providing the applicant fulfils the necessary prerequisites, including - most importantly - through demonstrating an acceptable standard of competence in the English Language and proof that the sponsor earns a gross annual income of £18,600 or above.

I trust the foregoing explanation will help to set your mind at ease.