I appreciate your response, thank you! So a couple of things to consider, the UA Polaris non-stop from SFO to MNL is actually north of $7k which isn't within my budget. I'm just finding the sub $5k Polaris tickets on a handful of routes and dates, so this is pushing my comfort levels for price point(s). In addition, there really aren't too many other sub $5k business class products out there. Even PR is at $5k from LAX to MNL and $5.2k from JFK, and most other airlines seem to be in the $7k to $9k range at least. To clarify, the $5k budget is for RT or $2.5k each way. Finally, there will come a time when I actually retire and my budget will be cut and it would be nice to either have a lot of miles in a useful program, or those plus points that I know almost nothing about other than at P1K it could lead to 4 RT flights being upgraded transpacific if I'm reading the UA website correctly.

Anyhoo, I have a month to decide and I'll continue to review these boards. It is nice to be able to obtain the upfront seating at booking, but I'm looking longer term as well. I appreciate the response and enjoy your weekend!