AXEL Virtual Care launches for testing as potential rehab for children with CP

Written by CAMP Information and Public Relations Committee on September 8, 2026. Posted in #ProudCAMPer, Publications, Research.

by Adrianne Louise D. Dominguez

This week, we’re featuring a study on new technology using immersive gamification that has been found ready for testing for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Published in Information by CAMP Professor, Dr. Maria Eliza R. Aguila, and her colleagues from the UP Augmented Experience eHealth Laboratory, this research report documents the response of healthy children to the immersive gamification technology system (ImGTS). The ImGTS features three interactive spaceship-themed mini-games called Mission to Planet Axel using virtual reality, and was designed and developed as an innovative rehabilitation tool to improve balance, strength, and walking ability of children with CP.

Measures of safety, acceptability and usability are needed as initial evidence for the potential therapeutic use of the ImGTS. The research used descriptive and thematic analyses to evaluate the experience of participants in using the ImGTS either through a head-mounted display or a semi-cave automatic virtual environment. The Phase 1 trial among healthy children (n=30) found the ImGTS to be tolerated, satisfactory, and well-received. These findings indicate readiness of the ImGTS for Phase 2 clinical testing among children with CP as participants.

This project is a collaboration between professionals, including those from the University of the Philippines Manila and University of the Philippines Diliman, highlighting the value of partnerships between different disciplines in innovating to improve the health and ultimately, the quality of life of Filipinos. As the project moves towards validating its efficacy for CP rehabilitation, it demonstrates potential in developing therapeutic approaches that are technology-backed, appropriate, and relevant to the Filipino people.

The full paper is available for viewing at https://www.mdpi.com/2078-2489/17/2/206.

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