The creation of the Ngobe Buglé territory in the 1990's changed the map of the Republic, as it encompasses large segments of land formerly administrated by the provinces of Bocas del Toro, Chirquí and Veraguas.

Formerly known as Guaymie, this major subdivision of Native Americans comprises two cultural groups: the Ngobe and the Buglé, the members of which live in tiny hamlets scattered throughout the mountains of the Central Cordillera mountain range and work in agricultural activities, such as the banana and coffee plantations of the region. The Ngobe Buglé are known for special handicrafts: the famous chaquiras - necklaces and bracelets made with tiny plastic beads and the colorful female gowns, an attractive item for tourist women. Considered the largest of Panama's indigenous groups (65.5% of local Native Americans), the Ngobe Buglé are also the country's fastest growing tribe. According to the 2000 Census, the group's population was estimated in 186,861 people.