Marco Polo requires 50USD every year for renewal unless you fly 4 segments on CX. The only benefit I see in this program is a toll free reservation 24/24 7/7 and a better recognition.
If you fly a lot on CX, I think you will be invited to join for free.
Knowing how AsiaMiles/MPC does the upgrade, I think I know how to work the system for you but I really should not be elaborating here.