Two years ago I used AA miles to book a RT Asia award in first class. When I booked two of four segments were available in first, one segment did not offer first class, and the other an award was not available.

1. CX begins to release additional awards about two weeks prior to departure, so don't expect anything soon.

2. On my final segment which was HGK - LAX when I checked in at MNL, there was one remaining first class seat open on the connecting flight. I asked if I could have it since I was booked on a FC award ticket. The agent said, "Yes you are booked on a first class award ticket - I will contact management in Hong Kong and see if they will release the seat to you. Go the the lounge and within the hour we'll let you know." Within the hour they brought me the boarding pass for the one remaining first class seat. Well done CX. If you have a Business Class award, I would expect you'll end up getting business as long as seats are available. Have a great flight!