Aquino grew up in the Philippines and moved briefly to the U.S. as a teenager before settling in the Vancouver area in the 1990s. The Filipino community was small then — “It really did feel like everybody knew each other,” he said — and even now it's not uncommon to meet a stranger and learn that they're related through an aunt or uncle.

On Monday, a vigil took place in the Chinatown International District as a way to mourn and honor the 11 lives lost, and hope for a speedy recovery for the dozens injured.

The Philippine consulate warned against donating to unverified fundraisers that may be exploiting the tragedy in Canada.