SM MOA Opens First Sensory Lab for People With Sensory Sensitivities

If you’ve ever cut a mall trip short because your child was overwhelmed by the lights, sounds, or crowds, SM Mall of Asia now has a new option worth knowing about.

On January 19, 2026, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), opened the country’s first SM Sensory Lab at SM Mall of Asia. The project was developed with support from the National Council on Disability Affairs and the Autism Society Philippines.

“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. Itong kauna-unahan na SM Sensory Lab ay solusyon sa ganong mga pagkakataon.” said DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian during the launch.

Junias Eusebio, SM Vice President for Mall Operations, said the facility was developed with input from the Autism Society of the Philippines. “We also have to make sure that we follow the correct guidelines in our fully welcoming corner,” he said.

Gatchalian added that spaces like this help prevent both neurodivergent children and adults from feeling excluded in everyday settings. “Now, hindi na ma-e-alienate 'yung children or 'yung people with special needs lalo na 'yung mga nasa autism spectrum kapag pumunta sa mga mall.” He also expressed hope that similar calming corners could eventually be introduced in other public spaces.

Also read: New App Helps People with Autism Navigate Noisy Public Spaces

Located on Level 3 of the mall’s main building, the Sensory Lab works as a “calming corner.” When the noise, crowds, or lights become overwhelming, visitors can step into this quieter space to regroup before deciding whether to continue their mall visit or head home.

The room is designed to keep stimulation low. Lighting is dimmed, seating is soft, and the space includes tactile panels, calming toys, and blankets. Visual supports help make the area predictable, which can matter for children who struggle with sudden transitions. Social workers are present during mall hours to help manage the space and assist families if needed.

The space is open to mallgoers of all ages who feel overwhelmed by noise, crowds, or visual stimulation. Children must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or caregiver in accordance with the lab’s guidelines.

There is no fee to use the Sensory Lab, but parents should expect a few steps before entry. Upon arrival, visitors need to register through the SM Malls Online app by scanning a QR code and redeeming a coupon. This helps manage the number of people inside at any given time. Entry depends on availability, and redeeming a coupon does not guarantee immediate access since capacity is limited.

The Sensory Lab operates during regular mall hours, but it is not a walk in, stay as long as you like space. Time and capacity are managed to keep the environment calm for everyone inside.

Read this if you’re wondering what early signs of autism in babies can look like.