There, now that my initial shock has worn off, I was surprised to check my email and find a PPR. I must admit I was stunned for a minute. Then my mind turned on again and the search for meaning began...
So, I had a PPR in my mail. I checked my wife's email and the PPR was not there (might be mail lag, who knows). There is no change in ECAS. And the only items being asked for are:
passport
re-medical
current address to mail passport back to
Soooooo... What can we learn from this?
First, when I sent the app I sent the NSO marriage certificate and I sent the CENOMAR from when we were married (proof she was single before our marriage). Is it possible that the combination of proof of no marriage then a marriage certificate is as acceptable as an AOM? My wife just got 2 copies of the AOM which I guess will go in our files for future use.
And second and the big question for everyone else still waiting: would I have gotten this without the GCMS order and MP visit? Unfortunately that is difficult to know. They have had 2 full work days in Manila since my visit. And I find it curious that I got the email and my wife's g-mail is still empty (my name is on the MP info request).
I guess I can't really say one way or another. The fact that no other docs were asked for, and the interview is waived means it was fairly simple on their end (when I get the GCMS file I will know more). So I am tending to believe my theory that it was sitting unopened till they were prompted to open it by the MP inquiry.
I think the takeaway from this experience is to listen to CJG and Steph's view. If your app has been sitting in Manila for 6 months or more it is worth an MP visit. I don't think it necessarily speeds things up or will get you done faster though. I think what is really happening is it forces them to actually OPEN and LOOK AT your application. As we've seen they like to pick the order they will process apps. I think the MP inquiry forced them to look at my app based on it's arrival sequence.
