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On June 12, 2025, Lirio Santos is charged with robbery in the Regional Trial Court, Branch 20, Cebu City. He was arraigned and pleaded not guilty. On the date set for trial, Santos is absent despite valid summons; his counsel is present in court. After warning the parties that the trial would proceed in Santos's absence, the court receives testimony from three prosecution witnesses and convicts Santos. Santos later appears and moves for relief, contending that his trial in absentia violated due process. (a) Identify the controlling doctrine on trial in absentia and the conditions under which it is permissible. (b) Evaluate whether the trial in absentia was properly conducted under these facts, distinguishing permissible circumstances from violations. (c) If the proceeding is defective or the conviction may be challenged, describe the remedies available to Santos and any limitations.