YES! I'm using PHP to build my Search Engine for Kids Activities (http://twkids.app) and its been great!

I love PHP as there's no other language that provides the same simplicity and immediacy of results. I tried learning multiple frameworks but it was just too overwhelming and complicated. With PHP, its very easy to just get started as you can mix it right into your html.

I just learned the basics on http://w3schools.com and just started working on my project (http://twkids.app) right away. I think the best way to learn is to just build something real. Then just Google your questions along the way.

Good Luck!