Do I Need to Meet my Filipina in the Philippines Before Getting Married?

I have talked to someone in the west who asked me about bringing a Filipina over to his country on a fiance visa, without visiting the Philippines to see her, her family and friends, surroundings, etc. Today I will talk a little about the importance of taking the trouble to go and meet her. Also, if a westerner can't afford to visit the Philippines or is physically unable to do this, he is really missing out on learning about her and she might want to keep looking. Comments are welcome!