VANCOUVER, BC -- The Board of Directors of Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd. (TSX Venture: PEX) (the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Gerald Carlson as Vice President Exploration of the Company effective December 1, 2012.

Gerald G. (Gerry) Carlson, Ph.D., P.Eng., has over 40 years of international experience in managing mineral exploration and mining development companies with a focus on precious and base metal deposits. His career has included independent consulting assignments and management of exploration programs for both junior and major mining companies. He is a past President of AMEBC (formerly the British Columbia and Yukon Chamber of Mines) and President of the Society of Economic Geologists Canada Foundation. He is a recipient of the SEG's Ralph Marsden Award for distinguished service and CIM's J.C. Sproule Award for the advancement of geology and mineral exploration in the Yukon. Of particular benefit to the Company is Gerry Carlson's long history of Yukon-related mineral exploration, public company management and relationships with a large Yukon resident network.

The Company has granted incentive stock options to Mr. Carlson to purchase 500,000 common shares at an exercise price of $0.10 per share exercisable for a period of five years. The options vest as to 50% on the date of grant and 50% in one year, subject to the terms and conditions of the Company's stock option plan. The options are subject to acceptance for filing by the TSX Venture Exchange.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

John S. Brock
President & CEO
Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd.

For further information, contact:
Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd.
John S. Brock
President and CEO
Tel: (604) 687-4951
www.pacificridgeexploration.com

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