MANILA - President Benigno Aquino III has signed into law the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Act of 2015, Malacañang announced Tuesday.

Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma said the President signed Republic Act No. 10742 on January 15, 2016.

"The SK reform law seeks to strengthen and empower the SK and transform it into a useful conduit for youth involvement in community development," Coloma said.

Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr., a co-author and principal sponsor of the measure, welcomed the enactment.

"With important features such as fiscal autonomy and mandatory training programs, I am confident this new law will truly empower youth leaders not only in addressing issues unique to their sector but also for meaningful contribution to local governance and nation-building," Marcos said.

He said the law "also marks an important historical milestone, being the first law with anti-political dynasty provision."

"I am confident that with the reforms institutionalized under this law, we will see a new breed of youth leaders who would truly represent our hope for a brighter future for our country," Marcos added.