MANILA, Sept. 16 (Xinhuanet) -- US President George W. Bush's visit to the Philippines next month will go "beyond mere concerns over terrorism," and will push forward mutual interests in the region, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Tuesday.

　　"This visit goes beyond mere concerns over terrorism. It is about the mutuality of Philippine and US interests in peace, security and development, regionally and globally," Arroyo was quoted as saying in a presidential palace statement.

　　Arroyo said that, during Bush's visit, the two leaders would "reaffirm our commitments to key programs that will push forward political and economic security in this part of the world."

　　She said the Filipino people continue to benefit immensely -- in terms of jobs, livelihood opportunities and public safety -- from the strategic relationship between the two countries.

　　Arroyo reiterated that maximum security measures are set for the Bush visit to foil any possible terror attack.

　　Bush is scheduled to make an eight-hour stopover here on Oct. 18 en route to Bangkok, Thailand, where he will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders' meeting, which is largely seen as a gesture of thanks to Arroyo for her staunch support in the US-led war on terror.

　　Earlier, Philippine Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye said Bush would likely seek a "post-conflict" role for the United States once the Philippine government signs a peace deal with MoroIslamic Liberation Front rebels in the southern Philippines.

　　The Philippines and the United States have worked together in fighting both local and foreign extremists allegedly linked to such alleged terrorist groups as Jemaah Islamiyah and the al-Qaeda.

　　Meanwhile, about 50 protesters marched on the US embassy here to condemn the upcoming visit. The demonstrators carried signs reading "No Bush allowed" and other anti-American slogans, as riotpolice blocked their path. Enditem