Manila: The National Police Commission (Napolcom) announced on Friday that Corporal Simeon Suan, who gained notoriety after a video of him forcibly handcuffing and dragging a 76-year-old driver following a minor traffic collision in Taguig City went viral, has been marked as absent without official leave (AWOL) for the third time.

According to Philippines News Agency, Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Calinisan disclosed at the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum in Manila that the relieved Rizal police officer has once again left his post without proper authorization. Calinisan expressed confusion over why Suan continues to be in service despite his repeated absences. "He is not reporting to work anymore and is now AWOL, and for the record, it is his third time to go on AWOL. He has been AWOL twice before. He has not been on leave for many days. I don't understand why he is back in service," Calinisan remarked.

The commissioner explained that the incident in question, which took place on June 2, arose from a minor traffic accident and involved misconduct by the police officer. Calinisan emphasized, "That is a simple traffic incident, no need to make a fuss."

The viral nature of the arrest video has prompted Napolcom to address the situation publicly. Calinisan underscored the importance of transparency and public communication in such cases, stating, "The violation, the video was viral. The arrest of the senior citizen was viral. That necessitates a public response." He added that it is crucial for the agency to reassure the public and maintain their trust. "It is our job to inform the general public that this happened and that the government is taking action. We need to earn the people's trust every single day. We cannot operate under a cloud of darkness," Calinisan concluded.