North and South America were divided by the sea, until the Isthmus of Panama was created three million years ago. It was the biggest and reportedly the most significant geological event in 60 million years. Prior to that date as the Earth's plates began to join, the Pearl Islands emerged from the sea. Indigenous tribes lived on many of the Pearl Islands, including Contadora, and Pre-Columbian artifacts have been found there. The biggest island in the chain is Isla del Rey where more than fifteen pre-Columbian recognized archeological sites of the “Cuevas” and “Cocle” cultures have been identified. However, none of the original population remains.

A Bill which will reform the Concession application process and requirements for island properties, is currently before the Economic and Finance Commission of the Panamanian Legislature.  A copy of the draft bill is available on the Legislative Assembly website. http://www.asamblea.gob.pa/actualidad/2005_P_132.pdf.  The second debate by the Commission on the proposed bill was held on October 6, 2013.