Two days ago I received a phonecall from Veronica Pratt, Presidential Liaison for Philips Consumer Electronics.

I discussed the issues with Ms Pratt and she told me that she would call SOS Electronics and provided they confirmed that I had taken the TV in prior to the expiration of my warranty for the same issues, she'd authorize them to fix it against our warranty.

She called me back today to confirm that she'd spoken with SOS Electronics and that they (Philips) would indeed pay for my repairs. She will follow up with a letter of authorization to SOS.

*does a happy dance* I win!