A lawmaker on Friday, 12 December, pushed for a more inclusive environment for people with autism and sensory disabilities, citing the issue as both a public health concern and a human rights imperative.

“Noise can be an invisible barrier, and for many neurodivergent Filipinos, it can be a source of pain and fear. This bill is our way of saying that their needs matter, their dignity matters, and they deserve public spaces that care for them,” Villar said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony of “iMvisible,” a digital art exhibit celebrating the talents of 24 neurodiverse artists.

During the event, Villar underscored her growing partnership with advocates promoting sensory-friendly environments, an advocacy she has now formalized through legislation.

The senator recently filed the Safe Sound and Sensory Awareness Month Act, which seeks to declare every October as a national month dedicated to raising awareness on safe sound practices, sensory sensitivities, and neurodiversity inclusion nationwide.

Under the proposed measure, government agencies, local government units, schools, and workplaces are encouraged to conduct education campaigns, sensory-friendly trainings, and inclusive activities.

The bill also institutionalizes a symbolic Quiet Hour Campaign at 12:00 noon every October, promotes the use of sound-level monitoring devices in public spaces, and urges private employers to adopt sensory-safe policies, including quiet rooms, controlled lighting, and reasonable accommodations for neurodivergent employees.

Villar said the proposal is a structural step toward reshaping the country’s approach to invisible disabilities.

“Inclusivity must be built into our policies, our environments, and our culture,” she added.

The exhibit, organized by The Misfits Camp led by founder Merlee Jayme, also highlighted the Safe Sound Check Initiative, launched last October to increase public awareness of sound sensitivity.

Villar earlier met with advocates of the Safe Sound Project, where they discussed incidents involving individuals with autism spectrum disorder who experienced harassment after reacting to loud noises.

“Safe Sound is no longer just a conversation—it is becoming a national movement because leaders like Senator Camille Villar are standing with us,” Jayme said.