Jesus is the only one we can rely on and should always follow, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said during the fiesta Mass for the Feast of the Jesus Nazareno at midnight on Thursday, Jan. 9.

In his homily during the Misa Mayor, the Manila archbishop highlighted this year's theme, "Mas mabuti ang pagsunod kaysa paghahandog sa mga umaasa kay Jesus," which emphasizes two signs of a true devotee: "pag-asa kay Hesus" and "pagsunod kay Hesus."

"Pag-asa kay Hesus at Pagsunod kay Hesus ang mga tanda ng tunay na deboto. Ipangako natin ito kay Hesus," Advincula said.

In illustrating hope in Jesus, the archbishop referenced the Filipino saying, "Habang may buhay, may pag-asa," rephrased in the context of the Jesus Nazareno: "May mas magandang turo ang mahal na Senyor, habang may pag-asa, may buhay.”

He explained that life cannot exist without hope because the Jesus Nazareno is alive and present everywhere.

"Ang taong walang pag-asa ay taong papatay-patay. May pag-asa tayo dahil buhay si Hesus Nazareno," Advincula said.

"Nabubuhay Siya (Jesus Nazareno) sa mga puso natin, sa paligid natin, at kasama natin," he added.

Regarding the second sign, following Jesus connotes hope.

"Kung ano ang sinusunod natin, iyon talaga ang inaasahan natin," the Manila archbishop told the attendees.

He warned that if we devote ourselves to Jesus but chase wealth, vices, and harmful influences, we will end up disappointed and defeated. Therefore, we must follow Jesus.

"Iisa lamang ang tunay na maaasahan, ang nagdudulot ng pag-asang hindi bumibigo, ang mahal na Poong Nazareno," Advincula declared.

The carriage carrying the Nazareno image exited the Quirino Grandstand at 5:13 a.m.

Around 220,000 devotees have joined the Traslacion since 4:45 a.m., while 518,300 faithful are at the vicinity of the Quiapo Church as of 6 p.m. — With reports from Mary Jade Jadormio