hello pinaynurse,
If the application was received on the 3rd oct, you're going to have to wait 67 days till you get your approval of Step-1. (Expect something by mid-december. if not then, early jan cuz of the holidays). When step-1 is complete, you'll get your Client ID and your file will be transferred to your Visa Office, which for you I'm guessing is Manila. The processing times there are 10 months on average (http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/times/perm/fc-spouses.asp)
So for now just sit back, relax and hope for the best
I'm not really sure you can go on a visit visa while your immigration application is in process. I haven't heard any success stories there.