The application during the TAR 32 period mentioned a month and a half window for filming. A normal filming period once filming actually begins is 21 to 23 days. Plus a few days of sequester beforehand. Filming could start in early November and finish before the first of December. Also keep in mind most seasons start between a Friday and the following Monday, and tend to end on those days as well depending on the route.
Quit fretting. Most likely Phil may have finished his most recent National Geographic locale, and his most recent video was not geolocated but was a bit to mark the Stop Bullying Day where one is to wear purple, which was Thursday. The outdoor setting could have been anywhere and we’ve no idea when it was recorded.
In other words, Phil could be back already for the start for all we know. And sequester always takes several days.