"Whipple" undertook ASW operations out of Kaohsiung before proceeding via Subic Bay to Hong Kong. The escort ship arrived at the British Crown Colony on 2 December before once more heading for Philippine waters where she remained for the remainder of the year 1974. After celebrating New Year's 1975 at Subic Bay, "Whipple" proceeded to Buckner Bay, Okinawa, for local operations which lasted through 10 January. Upon reaching Philippine waters three days later, "Whipple" joined Task Group 77.5, consisting of "Coral Sea", , and , in local Philippine operating areas.