Hi everyone

Here is my story and I am asking for your opinions on what I should do here based on your experiences.

I have tried to book a ticket redemption from Vancouver to Manila last March 2013 for June 29, July 2, July 3 flight (still on waitlist until now)
and return ticket on Aug 3, 4, 5 Manila to Vancouver (still on waitlist)

I went online recently and checked if I can redeem tickets again and it seems that it has opened up until June 26 redemption tickets. However, flights coming back are all stuck at wait-list.

My question is, when it is nearing the date, will my chances of getting a redemption ticket become bigger? If ever I can get a ticket any day between June 29 until July 4 from Vancouver to Manila confirmed I would take it. But what will happen on the return trip? Cathay Pacific is saying that I can redeem one way for 40k miles and pay taxes and surcharge then buy a one way return ticket for August. As compared to redeeming round trip of 60k miles and paying around $450 for taxes and surcharge which one is worth it?
OR can they book and confirm my outbound and waitlist my inbound until the last minute? One way ticket is around $1100? Round trip cheapest right now is $1680?

What should I do and what are your experiences?

Thanks in advance