Los Angeles, Aug 21 (DPA) Latin pop singer Ricky Martin has become the father of two twin boys who were born via a surrogate mother, according to a statement from the star's representative.

'In recent weeks, Ricky Martin became a proud father by the birth of twin sons,' the statement said. 'The children, delivered via gestational surrogacy, are healthy and already under Ricky's full-time care.'

'Ricky is elated to begin this new chapter in his life as a parent and will be spending the remainder of the year out of the public spotlight in order to spend time with his children.'

The boys' names and the location of their birth were not released. The identity of the surrogate mother was also undisclosed.

The 36-year-ol 'Livin' La Vida Loca' singer is a longtime supporter of children's causes around the globe through his Ricky Martin Foundation.

Gossip columnists have often identified Martin as gay, but he has refused to comment on his sexuality.