Plan International Released Documentary I Have a Name
The film highlights the critical need for birth registration services for children in the Philippines.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Cultural
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Should organizations prioritize official birth registration as the primary solution for protecting children's rights worldwide?
Plan International Canada has released a new documentary titled I Have a Name, directed by Ditsi Carolino. The film follows two mothers in Lanao del Sur, Philippines, as they navigate the process of obtaining birth certificates for their children.
Why it matters
A birth certificate is a fundamental requirement for securing legal protection, school access, and essential healthcare. By documenting these challenges, the film brings global attention to the millions of children who lack formal identity documentation.
Globally, 150 million children under age five lack birth certificates, a figure that accounts for approximately one in five children. Locally, 400 children in Lanao del Sur have gained registration since May 2026, with 500 more expected over the next year.
The players
Plan International Canada
This humanitarian organization operates in 80 countries to advance children's rights and equality for girls.
Ditsi Carolino
She is the director of the documentary I Have a Name and is known for capturing social issues on film.
The details
Produced through the Embedded Storytellers program, the film illustrates the systemic hurdles families face. Plan International and local partners are currently providing free registration services to families in the Philippines to help mitigate these barriers.
Timeline
Plan International Canada began a two-year campaign in 2009.
The UN officially declared October 11 as International Day of the Girl in December 2011.
Birth registration services began in Lanao del Sur in May 2026.
The world premiere of I Have a Name took place on October 1, 2026.
International Day of the Girl is observed on October 11, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The documentary release follows the pattern of global advocacy initiatives timed to coincide with the annual observation of the United Nations International Day of the Girl. This effort leverages the visibility of the UN-recognized day to amplify institutional calls for universal birth registration.
The documentary premiere at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema serves as a centralized event for stakeholders and the public. Interested viewers can engage with the organization's mission through resources provided on the official campaign website.
The takeaway
Access to formal identity documents remains a significant barrier for millions of families in developing nations. Supporting local registration initiatives is a proven pathway to ensuring children receive the legal and social protections they need.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing global advocacy efforts, visit our Cultural section.
More information
Read more about the initiative on the Plan International Canada Day of Girl page.
Live Poll
Should organizations prioritize official birth registration as the primary solution for protecting children's rights worldwide?
