Jake Vargas takes center stage as the lead singer of the brand-new band Dear Dina, whose first single is “Nabighani”

Actor-musician embarks on a new creative chapter as he leads Dear Dina in their first release, “Nabighani” – an ode to young love and hesitation

Jake Vargas, an actor and musician, will embark on a new journey as Dear Dina’s frontman. The six-piece group’s official debut will be  “Nabighani.” This single presents Dear Dina’s distinct fusion of emotion, sincerity, and easygoing appeal, giving OPM a new, youthful, and heartfelt feel. “Nabighani” is a tale of connection, shyness, and love.

“Nabighani,” which is based on Jake’s real-life romance with actress Inah de Belen, depicts the moment when you meet someone who captivates you right away but nerves and hesitancy prevent you from telling them how you really feel.

“The word ‘Nabighani’ has this beautiful Filipino charm,” the band shares. “It describes that unexplainable feeling of being drawn to someone. It’s tender, emotional, and authentic — just like the story behind the song.”

Sonically, “Nabighani” mirrors the soft, dreamy energy of being torpe – shy, in love, and hopeful. Its lyrics are simple yet sincere, like a conversation with your crush filled with quiet excitement and butterflies.

The song’s creation began with casual brainstorming sessions over coffee, where the band decided to write something that would be both relatable and true to their experiences. “Tinananong namin si Jake kung ano’ng naramdaman niya nung una niyang nakilala si Inah” the band shared. “Doon nagsimula ang song –  ‘yung kilig, kaba, at ‘yung feeling na gusto mong magsalita pero pinipigilan mo.”

The writing process was deeply collaborative, with each member contributing their strengths. When the band first jammed “Nabighani,” new member Louise Bayas suggested the now-iconic “sasabihin ko sa’yo” melody for the chorus, which immediately stuck. She also added a groovy bass line that locked in with the drums, filling the track with warmth and rhythm.

They describe the process as DIY – from recording drums at Victor Guison’s space (Unknown13 Pub) to using Louise’s personal recording gear.

To refine their sound, the band sought the expertise of producer Xergio Ramos, who helped shape the song’s final arrangement and direction. “Since it’s our first single, we wanted it to be perfect but not complicated,” the band shares. “Xergio really guided us in finding the right balance and bringing ‘Nabighani’ to life.”

For Dear Dina, “Nabighani” represents more than just their debut — it’s a statement of identity. “This song shows kung saan nanggagaling ang banda – mga kwento ng love, longing, at youth. Sincere and emotional siya, pero lighthearted and fun din,” they say.

Each member brings different musical influences –  from pop to rock to indie, but together they form a sound that’s uniquely Dear Dina: honest, cohesive, and deeply Filipino.

As Dear Dina prepares for their debut release, the band feels both excitement and gratitude for how far they’ve come. “It’s so fulfilling to see a song we built from scratch finally come to life,” they share. “This reminds us why we started making music – to tell stories, make people feel something, and enjoy the process together.”

Jake Vargas and Dear Dina’s song “Nabighani” allows listeners to rediscover the sweet, tense excitement of falling in love for the first time. This emotion is masterfully conveyed through authentic, relevant, and uniquely OPM music.

“Nabighani” by Dear Dina is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe.