The statement from the DPA claims Google has proof the search results (about unproven accusations of bullying, years ago, for which the complainant was never prosecuted) were irrelevant and outdated (https://www.gegevensbeschermingsautoriteit.be/nieuws/600000-...), so step 3 seems to have included “the DPA asks Google for clarification”.

But yes, it seems the national DPAs have a lot of power without a (¿clear?) way for appeal.