this is what the forum is for, read some posts, many were/are in a similiar position as you are.
you can always try a visitor visa, thou the reject rate is pretty high.
as for workpermit, is your g/f skilled ?
yes it's best for you to visit her, and wed her in the phils, cheaper and you can count on it being a sunny day , and many beautiful places in the phils
as for contacting other filipino's,
everyone on here is either married to, engaged to, or are filipinas
so ask away with any more questions you have