Continuing her support of the return to the Philippines, "Charles Ausburne" screened transports from San Pedro Bay, sailing 4 January 1945, north for Lingayen Gulf. On 7 January, the escort fought off an enemy air attack, and later, "Charles Ausburne", with three other destroyers, sped off to investigate a radar contact. It was , quickly sunk with all hands by effective fire of the four American ships. On 9 January and 10 January, she shielded the assault landings, then hurled 5-inch shells ashore to aid advancing troops. Returning to San Pedro 15 January, "Charles Ausburne" began 2 months of convoy escort and patrol duty to Lingayen, and around San Pedro Bay.