MANILA — the country’s first “sensory lab” was launched by the DSWD and SM Supermalls. It is intended to provide a peaceful space for individuals with heightened sensitivity, such as those on the autistic spectrum.

The lab is a space with low lighting, cozy couches, and other amenities that might be utilized to calm those experiencing sensory overload in shopping centers.

It is the first of its sort in the nation and is intended to increase mall accessibility for individuals with impairments, anxiety disorders, and similar conditions.

“Alam natin na kapag pumunta sila sa public spaces, na eencounter nila yung sensory overload, minsan nagkakaroon ng triggers na hindi nila gusto, and it manifests in different ways,” said DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

“Itong kauna-unahan na SM Sensory Lab ay solusyon sa ganong mga pagkakataon,” Gatchalian stated.

As long as the individual with heightened sensitivity is accompanied by at least one guardian, entry to the “Sensory Lab” is free.

According to the chief of DSWD, this is just a small step toward increasing the accessibility of public areas for individuals with special needs.

According to Gatchalian, he hopes that this would be repeated not only in shopping centers but also in other locations like airports and bus stations.

He mentioned that some families with people on the autistic spectrum choose to stay indoors out of concern about anxiety attacks and sensory overload.

Gatchalian said, “Now, hindi na ma-e-alienate yung nga children or yung people with special needs lalo na yung mga nasa autism spectrum lalo na kapag pumunta na sa mga mall,”

During the sensory lab’s operating hours, social workers will be on duty. The facility is free to access.

“We also have to make sure that we follow the correct guidelines in our fully welcoming corner,” stated SM Vice President for Mall Operations Junias Eusebio.

According to Eusebio, in order to make sure the facility is sensory-friendly, they consulted with the Autism Society of the Philippines.