Work permit 9g/pre-application/container (Manila)

My husband has signed his contract to work in Manila. Is it possible to apply for the 9g permit before entering the country? The reason I am asking is that I am trying to co-ordinate our flights as well as shipping the container. IS IT TRUE THAT THE CONTAINER WILL ONLY BE RELEASED ONCE HE HAS HIS 9g?? And that can take months!?!? Any assistance appreciated.